Dalen says he's trying to determine which office should handle the inquiry to ensure "this potential criminal matter can be evaluated fairly and independently." He says his office shouldn't be involved since it uncovered Gray's false statements and brought them to the court's attention.

A judge in June found Gray told "lies and misrepresentations" during a proceeding in which parents were unfairly stripped of their rights to four children. She falsely claimed she routinely visited the family as required and spoke to the children's teachers.

Until The Associated Press reported the ruling Tuesday, Gray had apparently avoided any consequences. She resigned from DHS last month.